Better Balance, Better Business - Working Together To Make It Work
Do you know what your employees need? The first step in making your business more family friendly is to start a conversation with your employees about what they would find helpful.
The staff of Carman's Fine Foods enjoy a supportive workplace where their families feel welcome. Photo: Gabriella Favretto.
How formal you make this process will depend on your business. If you have two or three employees you might have a chat over a cup of coffee. If you have a larger staff you could make it an agenda item at your next team meeting.You might even consider doing a written survey; do you think employees would give you more honest feedback if their responses were anonymous? Sample employee family needs assessment surveys are available online.Remember that employees without dependents still have families and family responsibilities. They need to be included in the conversation and reassured that they are not being disadvantaged.
What do your employees need?
Top five conversation starters
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What family or caring responsibilities do you have outside of work?
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How do your caring responsibilities affect other employees and the business?
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What does work family balance look like to you?
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How well do current work practices suit your caring responsibilities?
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How could we improve things?
Things for employees to consider
Family friendly practices are doable no matter how large or small your business is. Photo: Gabriella Favretto.
• If they work different or less hours, how will it affect their take-home pay, as well as super, leave entitlements etc. Can they afford it?
• How will it affect their elder or childcare arrangements?
• Will they need to be more disciplined, organised and motivated?
• How will it impact their career goals and professional development opportunities?